Jul 2, 2024
Best Photography Courses for Beginners

Are you new to photography and looking to improve your skills? Finding the right course can make a significant difference in your learning journey. Here, we will explore the best photography courses for beginners that will help you understand the basics and enhance your photography techniques. These courses are perfect for anyone starting in photography and wanting to learn in a structured and engaging way.

Photography Courses for Beginners

1. Introduction to Photography by Udemy

Udemy offers a comprehensive course called “Introduction to Photography,” which is perfect for beginners. This course covers:

  • Basic camera settings and functions
  • Understanding exposure, lighting, and composition
  • Practical tips for taking better photos

The course is taught by experienced photographers and includes video tutorials, quizzes, and hands-on exercises.

2. Photography Basics and Beyond: From Smartphone to DSLR by Michigan State University (Coursera)

This course, offered by Michigan State University on Coursera, is ideal for beginners who want to learn at their own pace. Key topics include:

  • Fundamentals of photography
  • Using smartphones and DSLRs for photography
  • Composition techniques
  • Post-processing basics

Additionally, you’ll receive a certificate upon completion, which can be a great addition to your portfolio.

3. Beginner Photography Course by The School of Photography

The School of Photography provides a well-structured course designed specifically for beginners. The course covers:

  • Camera settings and exposure
  • Composition and lighting techniques
  • Practical assignments to reinforce learning
  • Feedback from experienced tutors

This course is perfect for those who prefer a more traditional learning approach with direct feedback.

4. Photography for Beginners by Alison

Alison offers a free course titled “Photography for Beginners,” which is an excellent starting point for those on a budget. This course covers:

  • Understanding your camera
  • Basic photography principles
  • Techniques for different types of photography (portrait, landscape, etc.)

Moreover, Alison’s platform allows you to learn at your own pace and provides a certificate upon completion.

5. Fundamentals of Photography by CreativeLive

CreativeLive’s “Fundamentals of Photography” course, taught by renowned photographer John Greengo, is a highly recommended option. It includes:

  • Detailed explanations of camera settings
  • In-depth lessons on composition and lighting
  • Real-world examples and photo critiques

This course is ideal for those who want a deeper understanding of photography concepts.

6. Complete Guide to Photography by KelbyOne

KelbyOne’s “Complete Guide to Photography” is an extensive course covering everything a beginner needs to know. Topics include:

  • Camera operation and settings
  • Composition rules
  • Lighting techniques
  • Post-processing with Adobe Lightroom

Additionally, KelbyOne offers a community of photographers where you can share your work and get feedback.

7. Digital Photography for Beginners with DSLR Cameras by Chris Bray

Chris Bray’s course on Udemy focuses specifically on DSLR cameras. This course is suitable for beginners who want to master their DSLR camera. It covers:

  • Understanding DSLR camera settings
  • Techniques for shooting in various conditions
  • Tips for improving photo composition and lighting

Furthermore, the course includes practical exercises to apply what you’ve learned.

8. Introduction to Photography by LinkedIn Learning

LinkedIn Learning offers an “Introduction to Photography” course that is great for beginners. This course covers:

  • Camera basics and settings
  • Fundamental principles of photography
  • Composition techniques
  • Post-processing tips

Additionally, LinkedIn Learning provides a certificate of completion that you can showcase on your LinkedIn profile.

9. Photography Essentials by Skillshare

Skillshare’s “Photography Essentials” course is a popular choice among beginners. This course covers:

  • Basic camera functions and settings
  • Composition and lighting tips
  • Practical photography projects

Moreover, Skillshare offers a free trial, so you can start learning without any upfront cost.

10. Understanding Exposure by Bryan Peterson

While not a traditional course, Bryan Peterson’s book “Understanding Exposure” is a must-read for any beginner. The book covers:

  • The fundamentals of exposure
  • Techniques for mastering aperture, shutter speed, and ISO
  • Tips for capturing perfect photos in various conditions

This book is an excellent supplement to any of the courses listed above and provides valuable insights into photography.

Conclusion

Choosing the right photography course can significantly impact your learning journey. The courses listed above are some of the best photography courses for beginners, offering a variety of teaching styles and content to suit different learning preferences. Whether you prefer online courses, traditional learning, or a combination of both, these courses will help you build a solid foundation in photography. Start your journey today and watch your photography skills improve!

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